Blog.
Join us for wildlife stories, field notes, and plenty of coastal surprises - from sea lions at the marina to hidden tide pools and a shop full of nature-inspired art.
I started Salt + Noelle because I love wildlife - and honestly, I got tired of seeing nature and travel stories that felt out of reach. Everything either looked photoshopped, staged, or like it required a $20K expedition just to get a glimpse of the real thing. I wanted to share the coast and its wild moments the way I actually experience them: with patience, curiosity, and a camera slung over my shoulder.
This blog is for anyone who’s ever wished they could see more wildlife, but didn’t know where to start - or who just wanted an honest look at what’s really out there, not just the highlight reel. My photography is grounded in real fieldwork, not perfection, and my stories are about what I actually see and feel on the trail, the coast, and everywhere in between.
If you’re craving authentic tips, field notes, and a sense of what to actually expect when you head outside, you’re in the right place. I hope these essays and photos help you feel a little more connected to the wild, and maybe inspire you to slow down and see it for yourself.
I write from the coast, the trail, and sometimes the passenger seat. Thanks for being here - and for wanting something authentic.
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A Peaceful Afternoon at Roaring Spring Dam Park: Ducks, Photography & Small-Town Charm 🦆🌸
Some visits are simple, quiet, and perfect. I spent the afternoon with my family at Roaring Spring Dam Park, a small pond best known for its ducks, paper mill history, and calm, reflective moments. Read the full story and explore the gallery.
Trough Creek State Park: Hiking to Rainbow Falls & Balanced Rock 🌳🌈
Back home in Pennsylvania, I spent the day hiking with my partner and mom at Trough Creek State Park. From a swaying footbridge to a boulder that seems to float, this local favorite offers forested trails, waterfalls, and small-town nostalgia.
Why Malibu Seafood Is Worth the Wait: Fresh Seafood, Ocean Views & the Best Clam Chowder 🌊🦞
It’s the place I take everyone who visits: Malibu Seafood. From creamy clam chowder to ocean-view tables, this casual spot is worth the wait every time. Explore why it’s a must-stop on the California coast.
Whale Watching in Long Beach: Spotting Blue & Fin Whales on an Unforgettable Ocean Adventure 🐋🔭
What starts as a sunny afternoon on the water turns unforgettable when we spot blue and fin whales off the coast of Long Beach, California. Dramamine? Forgot it. Regrets? None. Read the full story and explore the gallery.
Petrified Forest National Park: Ancient Trees & Stunning Landscapes 🏜️☀️
I almost skipped Arizona’s Petrified Forest, but I’m glad I didn’t. From rainbow-hued fossilized trees to wide-open desert views, this quiet national park turned out to be a hidden gem. Read the full story and explore the gallery.
Kelso Dunes & Depot: A Journey Through the Mojave National Preserve 🦂🛤️
Trading summer storms for desert heat, I found myself standing at the edge of California’s Kelso Dunes. No hikes, no crowds - just stillness, silence, and a little history at the old Kelso Depot. Read the full story and explore the gallery.
Escaping to Sequoia & Kings Canyon: Giant Trees, Rushing Rivers & Much-Needed Fresh Air 🌲🏞️
Feeling boxed in during the pandemic, I hit the road to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. From towering trees to canyon views, this spontaneous trip was a much-needed reset. Explore the story, tips, and photo gallery.